We have been very busy here finalizing Lilah-Kate's adoption with the People's Republic of China and getting to know each other. We started Tuesday with the Civil Affairs office and receive our official certificate of adoption. Right after the appointment, we left for Wenzhou to visit her orphanage and file for her passport with the local police station. This was a five hour drive one-way and we found out that we have the best traveling baby! She sleeps or is content to sit still and didn't ever fuss. Everyone in the van commented on how good she was!

While at the police station in Wenzhou, I got her laughing, which helped us all feel a little less tense. We then let for the orphanage. It was a very emotional visit. We visited the toddler room that Lilah-Kate stayed in and saw the crib she slept in and met her nannies. We also visited the baby room and had the chance to touch and talk and pray for them. Most of the babies smiled and were happy to have the attention. We also visited the playroom and saw the little wicker stools that the children sat on. I asked if we could find one to take home and the orphanage director kindly gave us one to take home. What a treasure that will be for Lilah-Kate to have as she grows up and learns more about her beginnings. At the orphanage we left a gift of money, clothes and some books, which were very appreciated. Laurel and I thank you all so much for your help in doing this. We found out that they have 400 children from 2 to 14 that they care for. They only allow picture of the building and workers, but not of the children, so trust us that they were very very cute! We saw two of the boys in Lilah-Kate's celebration pictures and found out that a US family had come last week to adopt the girl that was always right behind her in most of the photos. We hope to make contact with that family! After the tour, the director of the orphanage took us to a traditional chinese lunch. We had a family style meal with some delicious entrees and some "interesting" ones. I tried "fish parts in gelatin"??? and chicken feet (not bad). Laurel and Jake did not...

Five hours back to Hangzhou, we drove through the very beautiful mountain ranges with villages scattered throughout. Still our girl was a champion traveller. We wrapped the night with KFC (where they did not serve the feet of the chicken) and walked the shopping district. Tomorrow we promise more pictures of why you read this blog, Miss Lilah-Kate!